The Best Private Schools in Highland, Ohio
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Highland. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
University School
University School
University School is one of Ohio's premier independent day schools for boys, serving students from Highland and throughout Northeast Ohio. With over a century of educational excellence, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program from pre-primary through 12th grade. The curriculum features extensive Advanced Placement offerings, cutting-edge STEM research facilities, entrepreneurship programs, and outstanding arts and athletics. The 221-acre campus includes state-of-the-art science centers, performing arts spaces, athletic complexes, and innovative learning environments. University School is particularly noted for its exceptional faculty, robust college placement record, and development of leadership skills through its all-boys educational model.
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Medina Christian Academy
Medina Christian Academy
Medina Christian Academy is a highly-regarded private Christian school serving students from Highland and surrounding Medina County areas. The school offers comprehensive college preparatory education from preschool through 12th grade with small class sizes and individualized attention. Their rigorous academic program includes advanced STEM courses, comprehensive fine arts offerings, and competitive athletic programs. The school emphasizes character development and spiritual growth through integrated biblical worldview curriculum. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, athletic fields, and dedicated arts spaces. Parents consistently praise the school's strong community feel, dedicated teachers, and excellent college placement record.
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Strongsville Christian Academy
Strongsville Christian Academy
Strongsville Christian Academy provides a classical Christian education to students from Highland and surrounding communities in Cuyahoga and Medina counties. The school serves grades K-12 with a rigorous curriculum that integrates traditional liberal arts with modern STEM education. Their classical approach emphasizes critical thinking, rhetoric, and logical reasoning across all subjects. The campus features modern facilities including science laboratories, technology-enhanced classrooms, and athletic facilities. The school is known for its strong sense of community, experienced faculty, and comprehensive college counseling program that consistently places graduates in competitive universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Highland, Ohio
What are the primary private school options serving families in Highland, Ohio, and what are their key characteristics?
While Highland itself is a smaller township, families typically look to nearby institutions. The top options include **Medina Christian Academy** in Medina (a K-12 Christian school with a biblical worldview curriculum), **Strongsville Christian Academy** in Strongsville (a private Christian school offering preschool through 8th grade), and **University School** in Hunting Valley (an all-boys, K-12 college-preparatory day school with a national reputation). It's important to note that these schools are located in neighboring communities, so commuting is a key consideration for Highland residents. Many families also explore Catholic schools within the Cleveland Diocese that may have busing options.
How does Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program affect tuition costs for private schools near Highland?
Ohio's EdChoice Scholarship Program can significantly reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs for eligible families. This state-funded voucher program is accepted by many private schools in the region, including Medina Christian Academy and Strongsville Christian Academy. Eligibility is primarily based on the assigned public school building's performance or family income. For the 2024-25 school year, the EdChoice Expansion (income-based) scholarship covers up to $6,165 for K-8 and $8,407 for 9-12. Families in Highland should check each school's financial aid office for specific guidance and apply through the state portal, as this can make private education much more accessible.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Highland, OH area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Schools in this region offer distinct programs tailored to their missions. **University School** is renowned for its rigorous college-prep curriculum, extensive STEM facilities, and competitive athletics. **Medina Christian Academy** integrates faith-based learning with programs like its House System for community building and may offer specific biblical studies or ministry tracks. **Strongsville Christian Academy** often emphasizes smaller class sizes and character education woven into all subjects. A common differentiator from Highland's public schools is the specific religious formation (for faith-based schools) and often more specialized attention in niche areas like classical education or leadership development, which are central to these schools' identities.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Highland, Ohio community?
For the schools near Highland, the process often begins a full year in advance. **University School** has one of the earliest timelines, with applications due in January for the following fall, followed by entrance testing and interviews. **Medina Christian Academy** and **Strongsville Christian Academy** may have rolling admissions but encourage applications by early spring for the best chance of placement. A critical step for Highland families is attending open houses (typically held in the fall) and inquiring about transportation options, as most schools do not provide district busing. It's also essential to apply for financial aid or EdChoice scholarships concurrently with the admissions application.
For a family living in Highland, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between the local Highland School District and a private school?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. First is **commute**: Attending a private school means driving to Medina, Strongsville, or Hunting Valley daily. Second is **cost**: Even with EdChoice scholarships, there may be remaining tuition, fees, and transportation costs versus the free public education in the well-regarded Highland Local School District. Third is **educational philosophy**: Highland public schools offer a strong, comprehensive secular education, while the private options provide specific religious instruction or single-gender, college-prep environments. Finally, consider **community**: The private schools offer communities centered on shared values or academic intensity, whereas the local district connects children with immediate neighborhood peers. Visiting both types of schools is crucial to feel the difference.